COURSE STRUCTURE:
Starts Friday 18th September 2026 for 20 weeks (split into two 10 week sessions)
Every Friday from 9.30am to 12.30pm
COST:
£550
Take your gardening knowledge to the next level by exploring the fascinating world of plants and the ecosystems they are part of. A Closer Look at Plants is an engaging course designed for anyone with an interest in gardening who would like to develop a deeper understanding of how plants grow, interact and survive.
The course is delivered over two 10-week sessions, beginning on Friday 18th September 2026. Each weekly class lasts 3 hours and combines plant identification, botanical theory and practical demonstrations to bring the subject to life.
Students will also enjoy two educational visits to outstanding gardens:
- RHS Wisley
- The World Garden at Lullingstone
Coach travel is included in the course fee but students are responsible for their garden admission ticket.
TOPICS TO INCLUDE:
- Plant senses
- Fungi, lichens and mosses
- Life in the soil
- Plant botany
- Plant defence
- Newer pests and disease problems
- Beneficial insects
Whether you are new to gardening or an experienced gardener looking to expand your knowledge, this course will help you develop a greater appreciation of the diversity and importance of plants.
Tessa Allen has taught horticulture for over 35 years and the RHS Certificate in the Principles of Horticulture for the last 23 years. Throughout, Tessa has had a high achievement and retention rate, which she puts down to the friendly but organised classroom atmosphere.
Should you have any further queries relating to this course, please complete the Booking Enquiry form or telephone the team at Coolings on 01959 532269 or email education@coolings.co.uk
If you are interested in any of our courses that are currently full please contact us to join the waiting list. If there is sufficient interest then we will always consider running another course.
Please note, courses will only be cancelled if not viable to run.
All courses are held in the education centre at Coolings The Gardener’s Garden Centre, Rushmore Hill, Knockholt, Kent, TN14 7NN
We provide a fantastic learning atmosphere in our purpose-built education centre, just a stone’s throw from our production nursery, display gardens and garden centre that holds the biggest selection of plants in the South East.
Other benefits include:
- 15% discount for students at all Coolings Garden Centres for the duration of your course (exclusions apply).
- Celebratory evening for students and tutors upon completion of your course where drinks, canapes and a light buffet will be provided.
- Free on-site parking.
- Tea and coffee provided.
